New independent scrutineer appointed to support City of York Safeguarding Children Partnership

A former Executive Director of Children’s Services has been appointed to scrutinise the work of City of York Safeguarding Children Partnership (CYSCP).

Mel John Ross will take on the new post as Independent Scrutineer to the citywide partnership. Led jointly by City of York Council, North Yorkshire Police and York Health and Care Partnership, the partnership’s role is to ensure that services across the city work together to protect children and young people from harm or abuse.

Ms John Ross’ role will be to challenge the partnership in all areas of its work, highlighting areas needing improvement, as well as good practice. The aim is to help make services across the city safer for children and young people.

Mel brings a wealth of experience to her role as a qualified children’s social worker, serving as an Executive Director for Children’s Services at Barnsley MBC.

Mel John Ross, said: “I am delighted to be joining the City of York’s Safeguarding Children’s Partnership as the new, Independent Scrutineer.

“I look forward to working with partners from across the children’s partnership, who deliver services for children and young people, as well as the many colleagues and organisations, who shape and contribute to York being a city, where children and young people thrive.

“My role will be to support partners in achieving the very best outcomes for children, young people and their families;  to hear and respond to children’s voices and lived experiences and,  to shine a light and celebrate best practice, by the dedicated practitioners from across the partnership.

“Equally, to support and contribute to culture that is highly ambitious and aspirational for children and young people, and one that is open and reflective to continuous learning and, continuous improvement.”

Martin Kelly, Director of Children’s Services, City of York Council, said: “I’m delighted that Mel has been appointed Independent Scrutineer for the partnership.   Mel brings years of experience and knowledge to the role of scrutineer.  I’m confident that she will give an independent and impartial view of the partnership’s effectiveness in addressing the safeguarding needs of our city’s children and families.”

Michelle Carrington, Director of Nursing, York Health and Care Partnership said: " The Partnership and myself personally welcome the appointment of Mel who will bring the level of challenge, experience and scrutiny required for the role. We look forward to Mel helping to drive us on in our vision to protect children and providing the best possible early start and support for families'.

Mike Walker, Temporary Assistant Chief Constable, North Yorkshire Police said: ‘We are very fortunate to have the opportunity to welcome Mel to the partnership in the role of scrutineer.  Mel’s vast experience in this field will be crucial as we move forward together and prioritise safeguarding children.  On behalf of the team at the Office of the Police and fire and Crime Commissioner I would like to welcome Mel and I am looking forward to working closely with her.’

For more information about the City of York Safeguarding Children Partnership visit www.saferchildrenyork.org.uk/